Meaning of the Chatterton family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Chatterton coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Chatterton name meaning and origin
Chatterton is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Old English word "ceatt," meaning "cat," and the suffix "-er," indicating a person who works with or tends to cats. This surname likely originally referred to someone who worked as a cat keeper or breeder.
History of family crests like the Chatterton coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Chatterton name variations and their meaning
The family name Chatterton has seen various variations over time. One common variation is Chattertone, which adds an "e" at the end of the name. This variation may have originated from a desire to make the name sound more elegant or sophisticated. Another variation is Chattertown, which replaces the "on" at the end with "own." This alteration could have been influenced by regional accents or dialects. Additionally, the name Chatterton may have been shortened to Chatter, creating a more concise and informal version. This variation could have been adopted for simplicity or convenience. Another possible variation is Chatterstone, which replaces the "on" with "stone." This alteration could have been influenced by the association of strength and durability with the word "stone." Overall, the variations of the family name Chatterton demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
